How does the software work? Does it use a webcam?
Yes, using your computer's webcam, 3M™ ePrivacy Filter learns the user's face through its facial recognition software. When an intruder is detected, the user is alerted with a pop-up of the intruder's face with an image taken by the webcam. The screen also blurs when the user looks away or steps away.

How long does it take to blur the screen once the user looks away or steps away?
When set at "Normal" security, the software blurs the screen after 20 seconds. When set at "High" security, the software blurs the screen after 2 seconds.

At what point does the blurred screen return to normal view?
The screen returns to normal view once the software identifies the user's face.

What should I do if the software doesn't recognize me?
Simply enter your Windows password to restore your normal view of the screen.

Will the software work in a busy environment, or will my screen be obscured frequently?
Even in a busy environment, you should be able to work efficiently. The software looks for a full intruder face. It generally will not detect intruders who are not looking directly at your screen.

What if I am working in a poorly lit environment?
The software may not immediately recognize you, but if you enter your Windows password it will automatically take another photo of you. Over time the software will become better at recognizing you as it learns your image in different conditions.

How does it work if I need to share information with co-workers?
You can pause the software by double-clicking on the shield icon in the lower right-hand corner of your screen. There is also a setting for suspending the software when you are in full-screen mode, such as when you are presenting a slideshow.

How far away does the camera pick up that someone is looking at the screen?
Depending on your specific webcam's capabilities, intruders can usually be detected from about six to fifteen feet from the screen.

How does 3M™ ePrivacy Filter software work together with my screen saver?
3M™ ePrivacy Filter software is compatible with your Windows screen saver. If you step away, it will obscure the screen within seconds. After 15 minutes (or your screen saver setting), the screen saver will be activated.

Will 3M™ ePrivacy Filter software affect my laptop battery life?
Yes, slightly. The software can consume between 3 and 5% of your computer's processing capacity when running on battery.

Can the software be disabled for video conferencing or other webcam use?
You can pause the software by double-clicking on the shield icon in the lower right-hand corner of your screen.

How does it work if I dock my laptop at the office?
The software will function as long as your face is viewable via the webcam. If you choose to work with the lid shut, thus blocking the view of the webcam, an external USB webcam is needed in order to detect the user's face. If a USB webcam is not available, and the lid is shut, the software will not recognize the user and blur the screen. In this case, it may be best to simply pause the software whenever you wish to work with the lid shut.

What if I use multiple monitors at once?
If you are using multiple monitors with an external webcam, it is best to position the webcam as close to the center of the two monitors as possible.

Will the software recognize my face if I am not looking directly at it?
Yes, you may need to educate the software on how you prefer to work. You can do this by positioning yourself in your typical work posture and clicking "Add User" (Select "Settings" > "Users" > "Add User").

How does it work if the computer is used by multiple users?
If multiple users are using the same Windows account, they must each add their image to the database (Select "Settings" > "Users" > "Add User"). If multiple users are using the same computer with different Windows log-ons, ePrivacy Filter will learn each user separately as the settings and facial database are user account specific.

How many users can use ePrivacy Filter on a single Windows account?
3M recommends the software for up to 10 users.

How sensitive is it to facial changes such as glasses, sunglasses, makeup, facial hair, hats, scarves, etc.?
The software may not initially recognize you, but if you enter your Windows password it will automatically take another photo of you. Over time the software will become better at recognizing you as it learns your image in different conditions.

Where are the facial recognition images stored? Does 3M have access to these images?
These images are stored on your local computer hard drive. 3M does not have access to the files on the computer drive nor does it store these images on an external server.